Site characterization studies for the Iranian National Observatory

TL;DR

This paper details the site characterization studies for the Iranian National Observatory, focusing on selecting and analyzing optimal locations in Iran for the 3.4m optical telescope based on environmental and atmospheric parameters.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive assessment of potential sites in Iran, including detailed measurements of environmental conditions relevant for optical astronomy.

Findings

Identification of two promising sites in central Iran.

Detailed measurements of wind, seeing, sky brightness, and microthermal variations.

Selection of the site suitable for the 3.4m telescope.

Abstract

We report on the Iranian National Observatory (INO) ongoing site characterization studies for INO 3.4m optical telescope under development. Iran benefits from high altitude mountains and a relatively dry climate, thus offer many suitable sites for optical observations. The site selection (2001-2007) studies resulted in two promising sites in central Iran, one of which will host the 3.4m telescope. The studies between 2008 and 2010 aimed at detail characterization of the two sites. This involved measurements of a number of parameters including the wind speed and wind direction, astronomical seeing, sky brightness and microthermal variations.